Churachandpur, Oct 9 : Security forces, community leaders and senior leaders of the militant groups, who had signed the tripartite suspension of operation agreement, gathered here today to discuss their common concern — “what next?”
The event, Implementation of suspension of operation agreement and way ahead for lasting peace, was organised by 27 sector Assam Rifles, which operates under the command of the 57 Mountain Division, at its headquarters here.
This is the first time that the security forces have brought together leaders of suspension of operation agreement signatories, community leaders and commanders of security units, after the tripartite agreement was signed on August 22, 2008, to discuss the implementation of the agreement ground rules.
Though all the three groups had different perspectives, everyone agreed on the need to work towards achieving the goal of peace and development, and a lasting solution to the Kuki issue.
“It was a good and fruitful beginning. We expect more of such interactions in the near future so that all misunderstandings can be cleared and a solution can be worked out through political talks,” Maman Cicilia, a member of Churachandpur district council, told this correspondent after the programme was over.
Bishop Mung agreed that such interactions would bring security forces, civilians and signatories closer, and ensure better understanding among the parties involved.
“As far as the signatories are concerned, the peace process has been proceeding smoothly. As the time has come for political leaders to step into the political process, we are organising the programme to take views of the people,” general officer commanding, 57 Mountain Division, major general D.S. Hooda said.
While the security forces want the involvement of the public to usher in lasting peace and the public leaders want extortion and intimidation to stop, the leaders of the militant groups want the Centre to solve the Kuki issue within the framework of the Constitution.
“We seek political settlement of the Kuki issue within the framework of the Constitution. We are looking forward to such a settlement,” T.S. Haokip, the convenor of the Joint Monitoring Group of the Kuki National Organisation said while addressing the programme. United Peoples Front spokesperson Sanga Hmar also spoke on the occasion.
The signatories belonging to the Kuki community are grouped under two umbrella bodies — KNO and UPF.
The participants also expressed concerned about safety of villagers residing near the designated camps.
Government officials, citizen leaders, academics and church leaders were happy that the residents of sthe district were finally getting a taste of peace, after nearly two decades of militancy.
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